Genetic Testing: An Emotional Decision

Genetic testing for breast cancer evokes emotional issues from the moment a woman begins to consider testing or is told that a close family member is considering genetic testing. This is true whether or not the individual woman has herself been diagnosed with breast cancer. Concerns over the results of the testing, and where those results may lead, often cause anxiety and other stress reactions. …

Talking with Children About a Breast Cancer Diagnosis

Having to tell children about a breast cancer diagnosis is rotten. I mean, really, as if having breast cancer isn’t hard enough. However (based on my professional experience as a nurse and my personal experience as a patient), I know that including children in the process — from the time of a diagnosis — is the most important thing that we adults can do for …

Mothers, Daughters, Grandmothers, Sisters, Aunts & Girlfriends: The Link of Hope

“The woman is the foundation on which nations are built. She is the heart of her nation. If that heart is weak, the people are weak. If her heart is strong and her mind is clear, then the nation is strong and knows its purpose. The woman is the center of everything.”

Art Solomon

      Ojibwe elder and spiritual leader

      For the People: Teachings on the …

Breast Cancer Awareness Month: What to Say (or Not Say)

Because I’m seeing so much pink this week, I find myself thinking about all things related to FBC (f-bomb breast cancer). It’s amazing how a few (million) pink ribbons reactivate the memory of experiences (and f-bombs!).

One of the things that comes to mind (that you dear readers discuss with me frequently!) is:

What to say or WTF not to say to someone with FBC.

The Absent Editor

There are times when we say things we wish we hadn’t. My patients have certainly talked about this experience, especially as they go through menopause. I’ve experienced it too, wishing intently that I had kept a thought to myself, or studiously ignoring my husband’s question whether I would like to open my mouth to change feet.

Different strategies work for each of us but these …